SPRINGFIELD - With help from the public, Springfield police were able to identify the jogger critically injured Thursday morning as 67-year-old Kenneth Zajac of Broadway Street, Chicopee, said Sgt. John Delaney, aide to Police Commissioner William Fitchet.

Zajac was stuck by a car backing out of a driveway at 1206 St. James Ave. at about 7:30 a.m. He was rushed to Baystate Medical Center for treatment, where he is in critical condition.

Zajac was unable to reveal his name, and he did not have any identification with him, Delaney said. Witnesses told police they had seen him jogging in the area regularly but did not know his name.

Police issued a public appeal and a description of Zajac shortly after the accident in the hope someone who knew him would come forward. At the time, they said it was urgent that police contact his family.

Delaney said the police department heard from several people who were able to identify the man as Zajac, and police were able to verify his identity. He said the department appreciates the help for the public.
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The accident is under investigation by Traffic Bureau Officer Edward Hiney. The driver of the car cooperated with police and at the scene. No citations have been issued at this time.View Larger Map